History-sheeter among 3 arrested for booth capturing bid in Rohtak

ROHTAK: Police arrested history-sheeter Ramesh Lohar and his two aides at Kathmandi area of the city on Sunday, after Rohtak MP Deepender Hooda complained of booth capturing attempt and intimidation of voters under the patronage of local MLA Manish Grover. They also seized 15 live cartridges from the accused and their three vehicles when they failed to produce the relevant documents.

A case was registered against the accused under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Arms Act after Deepender, who is a three-time MP from Rohtak and seeking a re-election from the seat, submitted a complaint with returning officer Yash Garg.

The trouble began when former Congress MLA B B Batra and his supporters had an altercation with Grover when the two leaders arrived to vote at the same time. Tempers flared after Batra accused Grover of trying to sway the voters but police saved the situation with quick intervention and also arrested Lohar and his two aides. They seized their three vehicles from the polling booth when the accused failed to produce the relevant documents. They also found 15 live cartridges and rods in Lohar’s vehicle.

Talking to media persons later, Deepender alleged the administration and the police failed to take action against those who tried to influence the voters. However, he thanked the Election Commission “for taking cognizance of the matter and arresting the culprits”.